McArthur calls for MMO funding for net trials (Dumfries Liberal Democrats)

Dumfries Liberal Democrats <tom@therussells.org.uk>

McArthur calls for MMO funding for net trials

December 23, 2008 11:13 AM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Commenting on the Scottish Fishermen's Federation's calls for support to fund new nets and gear trials to help the Scottish fleet secure new quota allowances, Liberal Democrat Fisheries spokesperson Liam McArthur said:

"The outcome of the December Fisheries talks could have been a lot worse. Even so, there are real challenges ahead for the Scottish fleet, not least in sourcing and trialling new nets and gear. Scottish Ministers must now step in to help out.

"There are options available to do this. For example, a specific budget has been allocated to help set up a Marine Management Organisation under proposed Marine legislation. This money has been set aside from 2008-09, before any MMO is likely to become operational. Ministers must now look at whether some of this money can be used to fund the purchase and trialling of new nets.

"Without such help, Scottish fishermen cannot hope to reduce unwanted bycatches. Failure to do so could bring heavy penalties. In the interests of long term, sustainable fish stock management, one of the goals of the draft Marine Bill, Ministers must act urgently to provide support."